First Tunnel Boring Machine arrives to construct Pune Metro's Swargate–Katraj Extension Line

Pune, India (Rail & Metro Today): Underground construction of the Pune Metro Swargate–Katraj extension is set to advance, with the arrival of the first Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) at the project site. A second TBM is expected to reach Pune by the end of November 2026, while the remaining two machines are likely to arrive over the next six to eight months.

The first TBM is currently being assembled at the Swargate launching shaft. Meanwhile, the second machine is being dispatched from Chennai, with its components expected to reach Pune before the end of November.

Atul Gadgil, Director (Works), said the first two machines would be deployed from the Swargate launching shaft, with approximately one month between their respective deployment schedules.

"The first TBM is currently being assembled at the Swargate launching shaft. The second machine is expected to arrive by the end of November. There will be a gap of about a month between the deployment of the two machines," Gadgil said.

Four TBMs to Support Underground Construction

The project will deploy four TBMs for the underground section. While the first two machines will be launched from the Swargate side, the remaining two will undertake tunnelling towards Katraj.

According to Gadgil, the remaining machines are expected to arrive within six to eight months. He clarified that the phased arrival and deployment of the equipment are part of the planned construction schedule and do not indicate a delay in the project.

The arrival of the first TBM marks an important construction milestone, as these specialised machines are essential for excavating underground metro tunnels in densely populated urban areas.

TBMs excavate the tunnel while simultaneously installing precast concrete segments to form the permanent tunnel lining. This construction method helps maintain ground stability and minimise disruption to surface activities, including road traffic and existing utilities.

Improved Metro Connectivity for Southern Pune

The Swargate–Katraj extension is part of Pune Metro's broader network expansion programme, aimed at improving public transport connectivity in the southern parts of the city.

By extending metro services beyond the existing Swargate terminus towards Katraj, the project is expected to provide an additional high-capacity transport option for residents and commuters in the rapidly developing southern corridor.

The extension will also strengthen access to Pune's existing metro network, potentially reducing dependence on private vehicles and easing pressure on major arterial roads.

TBM Deployment to Drive the Next Construction Phase

With the first machine undergoing assembly and the second expected shortly, the project is moving towards the next stage of underground construction. The subsequent arrival of the remaining two TBMs will support tunnelling activities towards Katraj.

The timely mobilisation, assembly and commissioning of all four machines will be important for maintaining construction progress. As underground works advance, coordination with utility networks, road infrastructure and surrounding urban development will remain essential to delivering the extension efficiently.

The latest development signals progress in Pune Metro's efforts to expand its network and improve sustainable urban mobility across the city.